Some people travel during the winter to play in the snow, others to bask in the sun — and some, perhaps, just to breathe in a great smell.
America is second to none for winter fun. We have come up with a list of destinations to help you defeat your seasonal doldrums and cure the wintertime blues. Here are some of our favorite places to warm up this winter season.
Honolulu
The Hawaiian capital holds steady in its silver-medal spot, and still offers solid winter credentials: great weather, fabulous outdoor activities, and appeal for both couples as well as families.
Phoenix/Scottsdale
For travelers, this Arizona metropolis is all about timing. Between the holiday season and spring break, Phoenix ranks high, but its blistering summer heatwaves keep visitors at bay. A trip here usually means days spent shopping, golfing, or lounging around the spa, and then turning in early. Phoenix isn't exactly known for its nightlife
San Diego
Even though temperatures can easily reach 70, it’s still a fairly quiet time of year here—great for exploring the zoo, or Safari Park, golfing at Torrey Pines, or jogging on the beaches (you just might want a wetsuit to swim or surf). San Diego is also hailed as one of the safest and cleanest cities in the country.
Miami
It’s the forefather of American snowbird vacations, and dazzles visitors with its mojitos and good-looking locals.In the first week of December, the city is completely and brilliantly consumed by Art Basel.
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is beautiful no matter the season, so you'll want to bring a camera to capture the sparkling snowy scenery. When you're not admiring the powder, tackle it at one of the massive ski resorts.
Key West
Key West makes an ideal winter getaway for those looking for warm weather, frozen daiquiris and mellow afternoons. Snorkeling and scuba diving are big here, and you can hit one of the bike trails to shake off the cobwebs from your winter hibernation.
Salt Lake City
This Utah city may no longer hold the crown for the best wintertime city, but it's still a prime hub for skiing, in part because you can stay downtown and drive a half hour to the slopes. During winter, you’ll also save a lot of money by staying in the city—one way that Salt Lake won the silver in affordability.
Santa Fe
The offbeat New Mexico destination offers the best of both kinds of winter vacations: fairly mild temps in the piñon-scented city, and access to the slopes at Ski Santa Fe, Taos, or Angel Fire outside town. Cold or not, it’s the perfect place to chill out, readers said: the city is ideal for cultural getaways and peace and quiet.
Methow Valley
Cross-country skiing's popularity is soaring, especially in Methow Valley, a group of secluded alpine hamlets in the upper Cascade Range, four hours north of Seattle. Over a hundred miles of groomed trails make this one of the largest (as well as most scenic) Nordic systems in the country.
Healdsburg, California
Beautiful Northern California has many fabulous destinations, and the town of Healdsburg in Sonoma County is at the top of the list. Small town charm, beautiful landscapes and outstanding weather are just a few of the trademark qualities that make Healdsburg so popular. Healdsburg combines five-star cuisine, rolling hills and world-acclaimed wine growing appellations for an experience you will never forget.
Where are you headed this winter for some fun?
0 comments